By Tracy McCormick-Dishman
editor@floridanewsline.com
The Williams Family YMCA recently hosted the “Safari to Self” Women’s Wellness Retreat, a community event focused on health, connection and education for women ages 45 to 60.
The retreat featured a variety of sessions aimed at supporting physical, mental and emotional well-being. A keynote presentation from Mary Beth of Baptist Health highlighted topics surrounding perimenopause and menopause, providing resources for women navigating that stage of life. Attendees also participated in interactive fitness sessions, including a “Strength Safari” led by group exercise instructor Georgette Butler and a “BodyBalance” session guided by Jen DeCamp.
Additional components of the retreat included a “Nutrition Oasis” session held under the oak trees with First Coast YMCA dietitian Kerri Napoleon. Participants also received hands-on recovery experiences, including muscle release massages provided by Miskell Physical Therapy and a self-care experience supported by Amy Kadlubowski of Elase Med Spa. Throughout the morning, guests were served healthy mocktails from Backyard Bartender.
“The goal of this event was to create a space where women could connect, learn and focus on their health in a supportive community,” said Melinda Lewis, healthy living director for the First Coast YMCA. “We are grateful for the team and partners who made this experience possible, and for the women who showed up for themselves and each other.”
Following the conclusion of the women’s retreat, the branch is now shifting its focus toward youth development with the launch of its summer program registration. The summer lineup offers a variety of programs including day camps, swim team and specialty camps.
The YMCA’s Summer Day Camp remains a cornerstone of the branch’s youth programming, providing an environment where children can build friendships and stay active. Each week features themed activities, outdoor play, team-building games and opportunities for personal growth led by trained staff.
For young athletes, the YMCA’s swim team offers the chance to build confidence in the water, improve technique and participate in friendly competition. The branch also continues its tennis camp program. Utilizing the facility’s clay courts and coaching staff, campers build fundamentals and refine their technique.
The YMCA is also featuring a lineup of specialty camps focused on specific interests. Options include Culinary Camp, where children explore the kitchen and learn basic cooking skills; Lego Camp, which focuses on construction and imaginative play; Art Camp, which encourages self-expression through various mediums; and Marine Science Camp, where participants engage in hands-on learning about ocean life and ecosystems. Additional themed camps will be offered throughout the summer to provide various options for local families.
“Summer at the YMCA is about more than just keeping kids busy—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that help them grow in spirit, mind and body,” said a representative for the Williams branch.
Registration is now open and families are encouraged to secure spots early, as programs are expected to fill quickly. For more information or to register, residents can visit the Williams Family YMCA Welcome Center or the organization’s website.
